“We have focused on strategy and cultural alignment, and the strengths of both organisations,” he said. “The tactical integration plan spans all functions of the business from HR, IT and marketing to business winning and improvement, and knowledge sharing. The rebranding is well under way and many of our back office systems and processes, including the consolidation of the IT systems, have been implemented.

“That said, integration is an interactive, complex process which takes time and we remain committed to that process to ensure that we create a collaborative, high performance company.”

Mr Bowcott also said that the Norfolk operation would remain an important part of the business.

“The offices in Norfolk will remain as a shared services centre for the group and a hub for our teams that travel across the county, and country,” he added. “Kier’s waste and recycling operation in North Norfolk district and the borough council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, runs for a further seven years, with an option to be extended for a further eight years. Our specialist surfacing materials business also remains in Norfolk.

“We remain focused on delivering an excellent service to our long-term clients and the local community. Our highways maintenance business remains strong; delivering highway services to 20 local authorities – all under long-term contracts. Our most recent win, the £200m Suffolk Highways contract, was successfully mobilised in October last year.

“We are committed to the highways business as a growth area, and continue to look for opportunities.”